KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica continues its impressive growth in airlift from the U.S., kicking off new service from AirTran Airways and a new route from JetBlue next week. JetBlue is adding service from Orlando to Montego Bay on Feb. 8, while AirTran Airways is set to launch its first ever service to the destination on Feb. 11 from three locations: Atlanta, Baltimore and Orlando.
“Jamaica was the only English speaking Caribbean island to experience visitor growth in 2009, and we want to continue that momentum by making it even easier for travelers to get to Jamaica with more airlift options,” commented John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “The island’s accessibility is complemented perfectly with its range world-class tourism offerings, including a variety of accommodations that suit any taste or budget, and a plethora of attractions that show off Jamaica’s diverse terrain and unique culture.”
According to the Tourism Director, the island’s tourism has held its own in these challenging economic times because of convenient service from many airlines, including the island’s national carrier, Air Jamaica, along with major U.S. carriers such as Delta, American Airlines, Continental, United, US Airways, JetBlue Airways, Spirit and Northwest.
The new flights from AirTran Airways mark its first time serving Jamaica, and to kick off the new service the airline and Jamaica teamed up to throw gate-side Jamaican-style celebrations prior to each of its three inaugural flights on Feb. 11. Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and Director of Tourism John Lynch will be on-hand in Atlanta, the hometown of AirTran Airways, to officially celebrate the airline’s new service.
Last year JetBlue Airways launched service from New York (JFK) to Montego Bay (MBJ) and Kingston (KIN), and on January 9, 2010 added service from Boston (BOS) to MBJ. The airline’s launch from JFK to MBJ was its most successful Caribbean launch to date.
